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Graduate Exploration Geologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Graduate degree; Master's degree in geology or geophysics highly preferred Years of Experience: 10+ years of upstream oil and gas experience, with a substantial portion in exploration/growth and ...

Graduate degree; Master's degree in geology or geophysics highly preferred Years of Experience: 10+ years of upstream oil and gas experience, with a substantial portion in exploration/growth and ...

Managing Geologist (MS/PhD)

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

Conducting field inspections and subsurface explorations (to determine causes of failure of ... years of post-graduate experience * Alternatively, MS in Geological Sciences specializing in ...

Provide engineering/geology and consulting services for a broad array of projects and clients. This ... May supervise field staff including graduate/field engineers, engineering technicians, exploration ...

Graduate Hydrogeologist

Phoenix, AZ · Hybrid

$67K - $86K/yr

A candidate that provides specialised geological insight on challenging projects, focusing on ... Exploration Plan Development: Provide the design of exploration programs, including risk assessment ...

Graduate Hydrogeologist

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$67K - $86K/yr

A candidate that provides specialised geological insight on challenging projects, focusing on ... Exploration Plan Development: Provide the design of exploration programs, including risk assessment ...

Intern, Geology & Geophysics 2027

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Who We Are We are one of the world's largest independent exploration and production companies ... Graduate Student * Expected graduation date: Fall 2027 or later * Available for internship start ...

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Graduate Exploration Geologist information

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$36K

$77K

$124.5K

How much do graduate exploration geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate exploration geologist in the United States is $77,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate exploration geologist?

Graduate exploration geologists are entry-level professionals who have recently completed a degree in geology or a related field and work in the exploration sector of the mining or energy industries. Their primary role involves collecting, analyzing, and interpreting geological data to help identify potential sites for resource extraction, such as minerals, oil, or gas. They often work in the field conducting surveys, sampling rocks and soils, and assisting with mapping projects under the supervision of senior geologists. This position provides foundational experience and training for a career in geology.

What are the typical responsibilities of a graduate exploration geologist during their first year on the job?

As a Graduate Exploration Geologist, your first year typically involves a mix of fieldwork and office-based tasks. You will assist with geological mapping, core logging, and sample collection, often working closely with senior geologists to learn best practices. Expect to spend significant time in remote locations, adapting to varying weather and terrain, as well as compiling and interpreting geological data back in the office. Collaboration with geophysicists, drilling teams, and environmental specialists is common, providing a broad overview of the exploration process and valuable hands-on experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate exploration geologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Exploration Geologist, you need a solid grounding in geology, mineralogy, and field mapping, usually supported by a relevant degree such as geology or earth sciences. Familiarity with GIS software, geological modeling tools, and data analysis systems, as well as understanding sampling techniques, is typically expected. Strong observation skills, resilience in remote environments, and effective teamwork and communication set candidates apart. These competencies enable accurate resource identification, safety in fieldwork, and productive collaboration, all critical to successful mineral exploration projects.

What is the difference between Graduate Exploration Geologist vs Exploration Geologist?

AspectGraduate Exploration GeologistExploration Geologist
QualificationsBachelor's degree in geology or related field; entry-levelBachelor's or master's degree; more experience required
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data collection, assisting senior geologistsField and office work, project management
Employer & IndustryMining, oil & gas companies, consulting firmsMining, oil & gas, mineral exploration companies

The main difference is experience level. Graduate Exploration Geologists are entry-level professionals focusing on learning and assisting in exploration activities. Exploration Geologists have more experience, take on greater responsibilities, and lead exploration projects. Both roles work in similar environments and industries, but the Exploration Geologist role requires more advanced skills and knowledge.

More about Graduate Exploration Geologist jobs

What job categories do people searching Graduate Exploration Geologist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Exploration Geologist jobs are:

Infographic showing various Graduate Exploration Geologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,030 per year, or $37 per hour.

Project Geologist, Staff Geologist, Senior Staff Geologist

AGS Inc.

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position Overview


We are seeking a motivated Geologist at entry-level to project geologist level to join our

geotechnical engineering /geology team in downtown San Francisco. This position offers hands-on

experience in construction observation, subsurface exploration, and laboratory testing in an urban

environment. The role is ideal for recent graduates or early-career professionals as well as

experienced geologist looking to build a strong technical foundation in geotechnical and

engineering geology practice.


This position includes project management, proposal and report writing, fieldwork on active

construction sites across the Bay Area, with responsibilities that directly support foundation

construction, earthwork operations, and geotechnical investigations. Clients include San

Francisco Public Utilities Commission, San Francisco Department of Public Works, US Army Corp

of Engineers, San Francisco International Airport, Oakland International Airport, San Francisco

Unified School District, Oakland Unified School District, and East Bay Municipal Utilities District.


Primary Responsibilities (varies with experience)

Field Responsibilities (approximately 30 to 70%):

• Perform field sampling and logging during drilling operations, including:

o Standard Penetration Tests (SPTs), Modified California (Mod Cal) sampling, Shelby

tube sampling, and Bulk sampling for laboratory testing

• Perform infiltration/percolation tests

• Observe and document deep foundation installations, including:

o Micropiles, Auger-cast piles, Push-in piles, etc.

• Observe tieback installations and testing

• Observe backfill placement and compaction operations

• Prepare daily field reports, field boring logs, and field installation logs

• Coordinate with drillers, contractors, and project engineers in the field

• Reviewing construction documents such as plans and specifications


Office Responsibilities (approximately 30% to 70%):

• Support laboratory testing in the in-house geotechnical laboratory

• Assist with permits, workplans, site-specific data review, proposals, and report preparation

• Compile boring logs and field documentation

• Support geotechnical analyses and project deliverables


Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Engineering Geology, Geological Sciences, or a related

field / Graduate degree is a plus

• Strong interest in engineering geology, geology, geotechnical and environmental site

assessments and investigations, and construction observation

• Willingness and ability to perform regular fieldwork in urban construction environments

• Ability to work flexible hours as required by construction schedules

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

• Detail oriented, resourceful, well organized, and self-motivated

• Valid driver’s license


Preferred Experience (Not Required)

• Prior geotechnical field experience

• Geologist-In-Training certification

• Familiarity with Bay Area geology

• Familiarity with drilling operations and soil sampling methods

• Experience with construction observation or inspection

• Basic laboratory testing experience


What We Offer

• Hands-on field experience on major urban construction projects for public sector clients

• Direct mentorship from licensed geotechnical engineers and geologists

• Exposure to a wide range of foundation systems and ground improvement methods

• Training in both field and laboratory procedures

• Career development in geotechnical and engineering geology practice


Work Environment

This position involves regular work on active construction sites and includes:

• Outdoor work in varying weather conditions

• Physical activity including standing, walking, and lifting field equipment

• Urban construction environments


Benefits

We offer a competitive salary plus an exceptional benefits package for full-time employees

including:

• Annual increases & bonus pay

• Medical, dental, and vision (optional)

• Flexible Spending Accounts and Dependent Care Spending Accounts (optional)

• 401(k) and 401(k) matching after 1 year of employment (up to 4%)

• Vacation, Sick time, and 7 paid holidays

• LTD, Life, and AD&D Insurance

• Professional development opportunities


Salary Range:

                                                        Annual Salary                 Hourly Salary

Title                                               Min              Max               Min        Max

Staff Geologist                        $70,000.00 - $85,000.00      $33.65 - $40.86

Senior Staff Geologist            $80,000.00 - $100,000.00     $38.46 - $48.07

Project Geologist                  $110,000.00 - $140,000.00     $52.88 - $67.30

Commitment to Diversity

AGS is committed to creating and maintaining a workplace in which all employees have an

opportunity to participate and contribute to the success of the business and are valued for their

skills, experience, and unique perspectives. This commitment is embodied in company policy and

the way we do business at AGS and is an important principle of sound business management.


AGS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer


Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified

applicants with arrest and conviction records.